Topical Composition

ABSTRACT

A topical composition having at least one active agent selected from a depilatory agent(s), an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair and an agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair, and a gas, wherein the at least one active agent and gas are dispersed in a cosmetically acceptable medium.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 13/144,132, filed 21 Aug. 2011, which is a US National Stage of International Application No. PCT/GB2010/000051, filed 15 Jan. 2010, which claims the benefit of GB 0900582.8, filed 15 Jan. 2009, the entire contents and substance of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

N/A

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a topical composition comprising at least one active agent selected from a depilatory agent(s), an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair and an agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair. The present invention also relates to methods of using such compositions.

2. Description of Related Art

Various topical compositions for treating the skin are known. Such compositions include depilatory compositions for removing unwanted hair. Typically, such depilatory compositions take the form of creams and include a depilatory active that degrades hair keratin. Once applied, the depilatory compositions are usually left on the skin to act for a predetermined period of time before being removed, for example, by rinsing with water.

To reduce the frequency of depilation, a composition for preventing or reducing the re-growth of hair can be applied in between depilation sessions. Like depilatory compositions, such compositions typically take the form of creams. However, such compositions are generally left to act on the skin and do not need to be removed after a predetermined period of time.

Frequent depilation or other forms of hair removal (e.g. shaving) can lead to an increased risk of in-growing hairs. This occurs when a hair curls back on itself and fails to reach the follicle opening. Sebum can build up around the hair shaft and cause a plug under the skin. This, in turn, can lead to inflammation and/or infection. Compositions for preventing or reducing in-growing hairs are also known. These tend to take the form of creams that are applied and left to act on the skin without the need for rinsing or removal.

Therefore, what is needed is a new form of the above topical compositions.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly described, in a preferred form, the present invention comprises a topical composition comprising at least one active agent selected from a depilatory agent(s), an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair and an agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair, and a gas, wherein the at least one active agent and gas are dispersed in a cosmetically acceptable medium such that the topical composition is in the form of a foam prior to dispensing.

In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention is a topical composition comprising at least one active agent selected from a depilatory agent(s), an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair and an agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair, and a gas, wherein the at least one active agent and gas are dispersed in a cosmetically acceptable medium such that the topical composition is in the form of a foam prior to dispensing from a container and wherein the composition is not an aerosol composition that exists in the form of a mousse or foam only upon release from a pressurized container.

The concentration of gas in the composition can in some embodiments be no more than 30 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition, more preferably between 2 to 25 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition.

The gas can be selected from the group consisting of air, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrocarbon, carbon dioxide, fluorinated gases, oxides of nitrogen and noble gases. In an exemplary embodiment, the gas is nitrogen.

The composition can further comprise water, in exemplary embodiments at least 40 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition can further comprise at least one emollient.

The composition can further comprise a depilatory active, in exemplary embodiments, from 2 to 20 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. A depilatory active can be potassium thioglycolate.

The composition can further comprise an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair, for example, resveratrol. The agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair can be present in an amount of 0.05 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition can further comprise agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair, for example, glycolic acid. The agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair can be present in an amount of from 0.05 to 10 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Glycolic acid can be used in combination with at least one of allantoin, green tea extract and white grape skin extract.

The present invention can further comprise a container for containing a composition of the present invention. The container need not be pressurized.

The present invention can further comprise a method of depilation comprising applying a composition to the skin, allowing the composition a residence time on the skin in order to degrade the hairs on the skin's surface, at the end of the residence time removing the composition and depilated hairs form the skin, and rinsing the skin.

The present invention can further comprise a method of preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair, the method comprising applying a composition to the skin, preferably, on the face or body.

The present invention can further comprise a topical composition for removing unwanted hair, reducing growth or re-growth of hair consisting essentially of therapeutically effective amounts of cetearyl alcohol, sweet almond oil, glycerin, urea, potassium thioglycolate, and lotus flower milk. The topical composition can be in the form of a foam prior to dispensing from a container.

Cetearyl alcohol can be present in an amount of from 0.5 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Sweet almond oil can be present in an amount of from 0.01 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Sweet almond oil can be present in an amount of from 0.05 to 7 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Glycerin can be present in an amount of from 0.01 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Urea can be present in an amount of from 5 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Urea can be present in an amount of from 6 to 10 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

Potassium thioglycolate can be present in an amount of from 2 to 25 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Potassium thioglycolate can be present in an amount of from 5 to 20 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Potassium thioglycolate can be present in an amount of from 10 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The present invention can further comprise a topical foam composition for removing unwanted hair reducing growth or re-growth of hair consisting essentially of therapeutically effective amounts of sweet almond oil and lotus milk, wherein the topical composition is in the form of a foam prior to dispensing from a container. Sweet almond oil can be present in an amount of from 0.01 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical foam composition. Sweet almond oil can be present in an amount of from 0.05 to 7 wt % relative to the weight of the topical foam composition.

The present invention can further comprise a method of removing unwanted hair, reducing growth or re-growth of hair consisting essentially of applying the topical compositions above.

The present invention can further comprise a topical composition comprising at least one active agent selected from a depilatory agent(s), an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair and an agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair, and a gas, wherein the at least one active agent and gas are dispersed in a cosmetically acceptable medium such that the topical composition is in the form of a foam prior to dispensing from a container.

The concentration of gas in the composition can in some embodiments be no more than 30 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition, more preferably between 2 to 25 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition.

The gas can be selected from the group consisting of air, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrocarbon, carbon dioxide, fluorinated gases, oxides of nitrogen and noble gases. In an exemplary embodiment, the gas is nitrogen.

The composition can further comprise water, in exemplary embodiments at least 40 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition can further comprise at least one emollient.

The composition can further comprise a depilatory active, in exemplary embodiments, from 2 to 20 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. A depilatory active can be potassium thioglycolate.

The composition can further comprise an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair, for example, resveratrol. The agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair can be present in an amount of 0.05 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition can further comprise agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair, for example, glycolic acid. The agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair can be present in an amount of from 0.05 to 10 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Glycolic acid can be used in combination with at least one of allantoin, green tea extract and white grape skin extract.

The present invention can further comprise a container for containing a composition of the present invention. The container need not be pressurized.

The present invention can further comprise a method of depilation comprising applying a composition to the skin, allowing the composition a residence time on the skin in order to degrade the hairs on the skin's surface, at the end of the residence time removing the composition and depilated hairs form the skin, and rinsing the skin.

The present invention can further comprise a method of preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair, the method comprising applying a composition to the skin, preferably, on the face or body.

DETAIL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of the various embodiments of the invention, various illustrative embodiments are explained below. Although exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that other embodiments are contemplated. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention is limited in its scope to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, in describing the exemplary embodiments, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity.

It must also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to a component is intended also to include composition of a plurality of components. References to a composition containing “a” constituent is intended to include other constituents in addition to the one named.

Also, in describing the exemplary embodiments, terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each term contemplates its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” or “substantially” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” or “substantially” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, other exemplary embodiments include from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value.

Similarly, as used herein, “substantially free” of something, or “substantially pure”, and like characterizations, can include both being “at least substantially free” of something, or “at least substantially pure”, and being “completely free” of something, or “completely pure”.

By “comprising” or “containing” or “including” is meant that at least the named compound, element, particle, or method step is present in the composition or article or method, but does not exclude the presence of other compounds, materials, particles, method steps, even if the other such compounds, material, particles, method steps have the same function as what is named.

It is also to be understood that the mention of one or more method steps does not preclude the presence of additional method steps or intervening method steps between those steps expressly identified. Similarly, it is also to be understood that the mention of one or more components in a composition does not preclude the presence of additional components than those expressly identified.

The materials described as making up the various elements of the invention are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable materials that would perform the same or a similar function as the materials described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention. Such other materials not described herein can include, but are not limited to, for example, materials that are developed after the time of the development of the invention.

In the composition of the present invention, the gas is incorporated such that it becomes entrapped and dispersed throughout the composition as a plurality of discrete bubbles. As a result, the composition takes the form of a mousse or foam and, advantageously, can be applied to the skin in a convenient manner.

It has been found that, by incorporating a gas into the composition, the weight of composition required to provide a certain level of efficacy, for example, in depilation, can be advantageously less than that which would be required using a comparable composition without the gas. This effect is surprising because the weight of active agent(s) present in the former is less than the weight of active agent(s) present in the latter.

It has also been found that, by incorporating a gas into the composition, the texture and/or skin-feel of the composition can be improved. The ease with which the composition can be applied can also be improved. Furthermore, the gas may not significantly effect on wetting properties of the composition.

Many suitable gases can be used in the composition. Examples include air, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrocarbon, carbon dioxide, fluorinated gases, oxides of nitrogen, noble gases and mixtures thereof. Suitable hydrocarbons include butane (e.g. n-butane and iso-butane) and propane. Suitable noble gases include helium, argon, neon, xenon and krypton. Suitable oxides of nitrogen include nitrogen monoxide and N₂O. In some embodiments of the present invention, it can be advantageous to avoid certain gases in the composition. Examples of such gases include hydrogen, methane, chlorine, fluorine, radon and ozone. Although oxygen and air can be used in many embodiments of the invention, it may be desirable to limit or avoid their use in compositions containing components that are sensitive to oxidation. Examples of such components include depilatory active agents, such as potassium thioglycolate, or active agents that can reduce or prevent hair growth or re-growth, such as resveratrol.

In a preferred embodiment, the gas comprises or is nitrogen.

Many suitable amounts of gas can be employed. Preferably, the amount of gas is 1 to 30 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition of the composition, more preferably 2 to 25 volume% of the composition, even more preferably 5 to 20 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition of the composition. The amount of gas can be 0.0005 to 0.05 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably 0.004 to 0.04 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition of the composition.

The amount of gas can be selected to ensure that the desired level of efficacy can be maintained with a given volume of composition. The amount of gas should also be selected so as to ensure that the wetting behavior of the composition is maintained at a desired level.

As mentioned above, the gas is incorporated in the composition such that it becomes entrapped and dispersed throughout the composition. The gas is preferably entrapped in the form of bubbles. The bubbles can have an average diameter of 1 nm to 5 mm, preferably 100 nm to 4 mm, more preferably 500 nm to 3 mm.

As mentioned above, the composition contains the gas and active agent(s) dispersed in a cosmetically acceptable medium. Such a medium can comprise water. Water can form at least 40 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition of the composition. Preferably, the amount of water in the composition ranges from 50 to 98 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably 55 to 95 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. In one embodiment, the composition includes 80 to 95 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition water. In another embodiment, the composition includes 50 to 60 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition water and, in yet another embodiment, the composition includes 70 to 80 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition water.

The composition can also include one or more emollients. Suitable emollients include oils, silicone oils, fatty alcohols, emollient esters, fatty acids and/or derivatives thereof. Where oil is used as an emollient, the oil can be a mineral oil, such as paraffinum liquidum, or a plant oil, such as sweet almond oil. Other suitable emollients include stearyl ethers, such as polypropylene glycol stearyl ether, polyethylene stearyl ether and polyoxyethylene stearyl ether. Specific examples of such emollients include PPG-15 stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene (2) stearyl ether and polyethylene stearyl ether. Further emollients can include, but are not limited to, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, triglyceride oils, oleyl alcohol, isopropyl laurate, polyethylene glycols, petroleum jelly, and esters such as myristyl myristate, myristyl lactate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl myristate, sodium lauroyl glutamate, cetyl esters, PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate, decyl cocoate, polyglyceryl-4-isostearate, isotridecyl isononanoate, C₁₂₋₁₅ alkyl benzoate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate.

The total amount of emollient can be present in an amount of 0.01 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably 0.05 to 7 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition of the composition.

The composition can also include a humectant, such as glycerin. The humectant can be present in an amount of 0.01 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition of the composition.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition includes a depilatory active. The depilatory active is a compound capable of degrading keratin and can be, for example, a sulfur compound such as potassium thioglycolate, dithioetythritol, thioglycerol, thioglycol, thioxanthine, thipsalicylcic acid, N-acetyl-L-cysteine, lipic acid, NaHSO₃, Li₂S, Na₂S, K₂S, MgS, CaS, SrS, BaS, (NH₄)₂S, sodium dihydrolipoate 6,8-dithiooctanoate, sodium 6,8-dithiooctanoate, salts of hydrogen sulfide for example NaSH or KSH, thioglycolic acid, thioglycerol, 2-mercaptopropionic acid, 3-mercaptropropionic acid, thiomalic acid, ammonium thioglycolate, glyceryl monothioglycolate, monoethanolamine thioglycolate, monoethanolamine, diammonium dithiodiglycolate, ammonium thiolactate, monoethanolamine thiolactate, thioglycolamide, homo-cysteine, cysteine, glutathione, dithiothreitol, dihydrolipoic acid, 1,3-dithiopropanol, thioglycolamide, glycerylmonothioglycolate, thioglycolhydrazine, keratinase, hydrazine sulfate, hydrazine bisulfate triisocyanate, guanidine thioglycolate, calcium thioglycolate and/or cysteamine. However, the composition is preferably substantially or, more preferably, is completely free from depilatory agents that destroy the thermodynamic equilibrium or the surface tension of the composition; examples of such agents include alkali metal sulfides.

Preferred depilatory compounds are thioglycolates, or their precursor thioglycolic acid. Most preferred is potassium thioglycolate, which can be produced by mixing thioglycolic acid with a neutralizing source of potassium hydroxide (as noted above excess potassium hydroxide over that required to effect neutralization cannot be used).

The depilatory active can be present in an amount of 2 to 25 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably 5 to 20 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably 10 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. In one embodiment, the composition includes potassium thioglycolate in an amount of 2 to 25 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably 5 to 20 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably 10 to 15 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

Where a depilatory active is used, the composition can desirably include an accelerator that will accelerate the hair removal reaction. Examples of such accelerators include urea, thiourea, dimethyl, isosorbide (DMI), ethoxydiglycol (Transcutol) or methyl propyl diol (MP diol). Preferably the accelerator is urea. The composition according to the invention preferably comprises from 5% of the composition to 15% of the composition wt, more preferably from 6 to 10 wt% of the composition of an accelerator (e.g. urea).

The composition of the present invention can comprise an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair. Preferably, the agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair is resveratrol. The agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair can be present in an amount of 0.05 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition of the composition.

The composition of the present invention can comprise an agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair. Preferably, the agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair comprises glycolic acid. Where glycolic acid is used, it is preferably used in an amount of 1 to 10 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably 3 to 6 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

Glycolic acid can be used in combination with at least one of allantoin, green tea extract and/or white grape skin extract. Such additives can help to reduce redness, irritation and/or act as a skin-conditioning agent. Where allantoin is used, it is preferably used in an amount of 0.05 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably 0.1 to 1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Where green tea extract is employed, it is preferably present in an amount of 0.1 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably 0.1 to 2 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition. Where white grape skin extract is used, it is preferably used in an amount of 0.005 to 0.1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably 0.01 to 0.05 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition of the present invention can optionally include one or more surfactant(s). The surfactant can be anionic, cationic or non-ionic. It is preferably non-ionic. Examples of suitable surfactants include cetearyl phosphate, cetearyl alcohol, cetearyl glucoside, cetostearyl alcohol and/or ceteareth 20. It is preferably present in an amount of from 0.5 to 15 wt % of the composition relative to the weight of the depilatory cream composition.

The composition can optionally include a source of alkalinity. In one embodiment, the composition includes a depilatory active and a source of alkalinity. The source of alkalinity can include hydroxides, such as hydroxides of alkali and alkaline earth metals. Suitable hydroxides include sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide. Preferably, calcium hydroxide is employed, optionally together with potassium hydroxide. The source of alkalinity (e.g. calcium hydroxide) can be present in an amount of 0.1 to 10 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably 1 to 6 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, for example 2 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition of the composition.

The composition can comprise other optional ingredients, such as perfumes, preservatives, pigments and fillers. Chelating agents, such as sodium gluconate, can also be present. Where employed, the chelating agent can be present in an amount of less than 1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably 0.01 to 0.5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, for example 0.05 to 0.1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition can also include an additive that prevents phase separation. Suitable additives include polymers or copolymers of acrylic acid, for example, an acrylate copolymer. Such additives can be present in an amount of up to 2 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably less than 1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, more preferably less than 0.5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, for example 0.1 to 0.4 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition can also include a malodor absorbent and/or adsorbent, such as spray dried silica. Such absorbents/adsorbents can desirably be present if the composition also includes a depilatory active agent. Such absorbents can be present in an amount of up to 2 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, preferably less than 1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, and more preferably less than 0.5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, for example 0.001 to 0.1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

Optionally, additives such as Aloe Vera and plant oils, such as sweet almond oil, can also be included in the composition. Such additives are employed in amounts of less than 1 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition, for example, 0.1 to 0.5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition of the composition.

The composition is preferably an oil-in-water emulsion.

In one embodiment, the composition comprises a depilatory agent, such as potassium thioglycolate, optionally, an accelerator, such as urea, optionally, a source of alkalinity, such as potassium hydroxide, optionally, at least one emollient, a gas, such as nitrogen, and water, for example, in an amount of 55 to 65 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

In another embodiment, the composition comprises an agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair, such as resveratrol, optionally, an emollient, a gas, such as nitrogen, and water, for example, in an amount of 85 to 95 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

In yet another embodiment, the composition comprises an agent(s) for preventing or reducing in-growing hair, such as glycolic acid, optionally, an emollient, a gas, such as nitrogen, and water, for example, in an amount of 70 to 80 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.

The composition can be contained in many suitable containers, such an unpressurized container. The composition is contained in the container in the form of a mousse or foam. Accordingly, the composition is not an aerosol composition that exists in the form of a mousse or foam only upon release from a pressurized container.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of depilation comprising applying a composition as discussed above and containing a depilatory active to the skin, allowing the composition a residence time on the skin in order to degrade the hairs on the skin's surface, at the end of the residence time removing the composition and depilated hairs from the skin; and rinsing the skin.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair, the method comprising applying, to the skin, a composition as discussed above and containing an active agent(s) for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of preventing or reducing the in-growing of hair comprising applying, to the skin, a composition as discussed above and containing an active agent(s) for preventing or reducing the in-growing of hair.

For the purposes of the present invention the term ‘foam’ is intended to cover compositions in the form of liquids, gels, and stabilized emulsions at standard room temperature and pressure which have a gas trapped therein as dispersed bubbles. For the avoidance of doubt the term ‘foam’ also covers mousses, aerated creams and aerated pastes.

These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described with respect to the following Examples.

EXAMPLE 1

Depilatory compositions having the formulations set out in TABLE 1 below were produced.

TABLE 1 Aerated formulae Standard 10% N₂ in 17% N₂ in 25% N₂ in formula volume volume volume RM Name % wt % wt % wt % wt Deionized Water 59.61 58.603 58.597 58.588 Cetearyl Alcohol 30/70 4.30 4.299 4.299 4.298 Ceteareth-20 1.66 1.660 1.660 1.659 Sweet Almond Oil 0.10 0.100 0.100 0.100 Glycerin 1.20 1.200 1.200 1.200 Calcium Hydroxide 3.70 3.700 3.699 3.699 Sodium Gluconate 0.20 0.200 0.200 0.200 Magnesium Trisilicate 0.35 0.350 0.350 0.350 Urea 46% N 7.70 7.699 7.698 7.697 Acrylates Copolymer 0.11 0.110 0.110 0.110 Spray Dried Silica 0.04 0.040 0.040 0.040 Potassium Thioglycolate 13.10 13.098 13.097 13.095 Potassium Hydroxide 1.10 1.100 1.100 1.100 Solution Thick Mineral Oil 4.70 4.699 4.699 4.698 Inorganic Silica/Silicate 0.20 0.200 0.200 0.200 Cosmetic Talc 1.80 1.800 1.800 1.799 Fragrance 0.50 0.500 0.500 0.500 (Thelma 200) Lotus Flower Milk 0.13 0.130 0.130 0.130 Coloring 0.50 0.500 0.500 0.500 (Pink Paste - Tio₂, Pink Dye & Propylene Glycol) Nitrogen 0.00 0.012 0.023 0.037 Total 100.00 100.000 100.000 100.000

The composition was made in the following way.

The components of the composition were blended using standard procedures for making a depilatory composition. These are known to the man skilled in the art. Thereafter, the resulting composition is subjected to aeration using an aerating machine. The parameters of the aerating machine can be adjusted depending on the properties required for a particular composition.

The compositions were tested by a panel of fifteen volunteers. All panellists found the compositions to be effective, moisturizing and easy-to-spread. They also liked the appearance, texture and skin-feel of the compositions. However, it was found that the same level of efficacy with respect to depilation could be achieved using lower weight amounts of the gas-containing compositions.

EXAMPLE 2

Depilatory compositions having the formulations set out in TABLE 2 below were produced. These embodiments can be made in the same manner as those of Example 1.

TABLE 2 Aerated formulae Standard 10% N₂ in 17% N₂ in 25% N₂ in formula volume volume volume % in % in % in % in Raw material weight weight weight weight Cetearyl Alcohol 7.700 7.699 7.698 7.697 Ceteareth-20 3.000 3.000 2.999 2.999 Arlamol 2.200 2.200 2.199 2.199 Pe 2.200 2.200 2.199 2.199 Ca OH₂ 3.900 3.900 3.899 3.899 Sodium Gluconate 0.100 0.100 0.100 0.100 Potassium 0.400 0.400 0.400 0.400 Trisilicate Pink Paste 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 Urea 7.800 7.799 7.798 7.797 Lotus Milk 0.150 0.150 0.150 0.150 Acrylat 0.120 0.120 0.120 0.120 Thelma 0.530 0.530 0.530 0.530 Silica 0.030 0.030 0.030 0.030 TGK 12.800 12.798 12.797 12.795 KOH 0.970 0.970 0.970 0.970 Water 57.600 57.593 57.587 57.579 Nitrogen 0.000 0.012 0.023 0.037 Total 100.000 100.000 100.000 100.000

EXAMPLE 3

Compositions for preventing or reducing the re-growth of hair having the formulations set out in TABLE 3 below were produced. These embodiments can be made in the same manner as those of Example 1.

TABLE 3 Standard Aerated formula, formula 10% N₂ in volume Ingredient % in wt % in wt Arlamol E 1.9 1.900 Cetyl Alcohol 0.5 0.450 Brij 721 1.8 1.800 Brij 72 1.1 1.100 White Paste 0.3 0.320 Deionized Water 90.5 90.528 Na₄ EDTA 0.1 0.110 Ethanol 96% 1.2 1.200 Eldew SL-205 0.9 0.900 Resveratrol 0.1 0.110 Cocosoft D 0.1 0.100 Aloe Vera 0.1 0.120 Phenonip 1.0 1.000 Synthalen K (Carbomer 940) 0.4 0.350 Nitrogen 0.0 0.013 Total 100.0 100.000

EXAMPLE 4

Compositions for preventing or reducing the occurrence of in-growing hairs having the formulations set out in TABLE 4 below were produced. These embodiments can be made in the in the same manner as those of Example 1.

TABLE 4 Aerated 13% N₂ 22% N₂ Standard in volume in volume formulation (% w/w) (% w/w) Raw material 8.35 8.349 8.347 Cetearyl Alcohol 2.80 2.800 2.799 Ceteareth-20 0.55 0.550 0.550 PPG 15 Stearyl Ether 0.10 0.100 0.100 Light Mineral Oil 0.15 0.150 0.150 BHT 0.40 0.400 0.400 PMX Depil White Paste 75.53 75.517 75.506 Deionized Water 0.11 0.110 0.110 Na₄ EDTA P 0.18 0.180 0.180 Allantoin 5.40 5.399 5.398 Glycolic Acid 70% 4.30 4.299 4.299 KOH 50% 1.00 1.000 1.000 Phenoxyethanol 0.25 0.250 0.250 Camille 21 0.70 0.700 0.700 Veg Ext Herba Green Tea 0.03 0.030 0.030 White Grapeskin Extract 8.35 8.349 8.347 Nitrogen 0.00 0.017 0.032 Total 100.00 100.000 100.000

TABLE 4

While several variations of the present invention have been illustrated by way of example in preferred or particular embodiments, it is apparent that further embodiments could be developed within the spirit and scope of the present invention, or the inventive concept thereof. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and adaptations are within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and are inclusive, but not limited to the following appended claims as set forth. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A topical composition comprising: at least one active agent selected from the group consisting of a depilatory agent, an agent for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair and an agent for preventing or reducing in-growing hair; and a gas; wherein the at least one active agent and gas are dispersed in a cosmetically acceptable medium such that the topical composition is in the form of a foam prior to dispensing from a container; and wherein the composition is not an aerosol composition that exists in the form of a mousse or foam only upon release from a pressurized container.
 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the concentration of gas in the composition is no more than 30 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition.
 3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the concentration of gas in the composition is from 2 to 25 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition.
 4. The composition of claim 1, wherein the gas is selected from the group consisting of air, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrocarbon, carbon dioxide, fluorinated gases, oxides of nitrogen and noble gases.
 5. The composition of claim 1, wherein the gas comprises nitrogen.
 6. The composition of claim 1 further comprising water.
 7. The composition of claim 1 further comprising water in an amount of at least 40 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.
 8. The composition of claim 1 further comprising at least one emollient.
 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein at least one active agent comprises a depilatory active in a total amount of from 2 to 20 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.
 10. The composition of claim 9, wherein the depilatory active comprises potassium thioglycolate.
 11. The composition of claim 1, wherein at least one active agent comprises an agent for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair in an amount of from 0.05 to 5 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.
 12. The composition of claim 1, wherein at least one active agent comprises an agent for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair comprising resveratrol.
 13. The composition of claim 1, wherein at least one active agent comprises an agent for preventing or reducing in-growing hair in an amount of from 0.05 to 10 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition.
 14. The composition of claim 1, wherein at least one active agent comprises an agent for preventing or reducing in-growing hair comprising glycolic acid.
 15. The composition of claim 14 further comprising at least one of allantoin, green tea extract and white grape skin extract.
 16. A topical composition for removing unwanted hair, reducing growth or re-growth of hair comprising: therapeutically effective amounts at least one active agent selected from the group consisting of a depilatory agent, an agent for preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair and an agent for preventing or reducing in-growing hair; and a gas; wherein the at least one active agent and gas are dispersed in a cosmetically acceptable medium such that the topical composition is in the form of a foam prior to dispensing from a container; and wherein the composition is not an aerosol composition that exists in the form of a mousse or foam only upon release from a pressurized container.
 17. The composition of claim 16 further comprising: water in an amount of at least 40 wt % relative to the weight of the topical composition; and at least one emollient; wherein the concentration of gas in the composition is from 2 to 25 volume % relative to the volume of the topical composition
 18. A container containing the composition of claim
 1. 19. The container of claim 18, wherein the composition is not pressurized.
 20. A method of depilation comprising: applying the composition of claim 9 to skin; allowing the composition a residence time on the skin in order to degrade hairs on the skin's surface; removing the composition and depilated hairs from the skin after the end of the residence time; and rinsing the skin.
 21. A method of preventing or reducing the growth or re-growth of hair comprising applying the composition of claim 11 to skin.
 22. A method of preventing or reducing in-growing hair comprising applying the composition of claim 13 to skin. 